Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Keep Josh Smith Day

With the NBA trade deadline inching closer and nerve-rackingly closer, I have decided to make February 19, 2013 Keep Josh Smith Day. The former McEachern and Oak Hill Academy star has become the most exciting Atlanta Hawk since the days of Dominique Wilkins. His gravity defying dunks and tremendous shot blocking prowess consistently transform Philips Arena into the Highlight Factory. But, it is highly speculated that the Hawks are exploring trade possibilites revolving around J Smoove. So, I'm campaigning for the Hawks to keep Josh Smith.

The AJC's Jeff Schultz recently wrote, "Smith hardly is the Hawks' biggest problem. They need a center. They need consistency at point guard. They need more players to build around. Moving past years of being a punchline isn't easy."

Although the Hawks have made great strides over the past 5 seasons, Schultz is right. There is still a lot of work to be done, as far as tuning up the roster. But, trading your best player ain't the answer. As a fan, I hope to see #5 continue to deliver an exciting brand of basketball to the hometown Hawks. Josh Smith is the heart and soul of the Highlight Factory. Without those elements, what remains?

To Hawks GM Danny Ferry, I offer a few simple words. Keep Josh Smith.

Monday, February 11, 2013

Fooled by Otis Nixon?

Last April, I wrote an article praising the works of former Atlanta Brave, Otis Nixon off the field. But, according to tonight's Fox 5 report, I may have been tragically off base with my words. Allegedly, the "On Track Ministries," over-seen by Mr. Nixon hustled unsuspecting citizens and failed to deliver on promises made.

As I sat in the front row at Milford Baptist Church, I was mesmerized by the former centerfielder. Here stood one of my childhood heroes, spilling his heart on his struggles and his path toward redemption. It was a tale that could only be inspired by the power of Jesus Christ. But, maybe it wasn't. Maybe it was more like a false prophecy. Honestly, it's tough to say. But, as someone who believed every word Otis Nixon told the congregation, I wonder if I too was fooled by the words spoken during his "testimony."

For more information on this topic please click on the title of this post
or you can visit http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/story/21129294/former-braves-star-otis-nixon-accused-of